Dubai-based Corporate partner Jennifer Bibbings was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2014, announced on 13 June. The honour is bestowed on British nationals who contribute valuable service to the UK and its people in the areas of arts and sciences, public services outside the civil service, or charitable work.

Jennifer was recognised for her services to British business interests, outstanding contributions to the community in Dubai, and her efforts to strengthen relations between the UK and the UAE.

At Trowers & Hamlins Jennifer specialises in the corporate and hospitality sectors and represents top global brands in the UAE and across the Middle East. She has been named a legal expert in the corporate and commercial fields by the independent Chambers & Partners’ Global Guide and The Legal 500 Guide to Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

In addition her work at the firm, Jennifer is Honorary Legal Adviser to HM Consul General in Dubai. She also served as the first female committee member of the British Business Group of Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and she was the group's first female chair between 2003 and 2006. In 2004 Jennifer helped set up The British University in Dubai, and she currently serves as governor of Jebel Ali Primary School, one of Dubai’s oldest schools.

Edward Hobart, Her Majesty’s Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, commented: "Since she arrived in Dubai over two decades ago, Jennifer has made contributions well beyond the legal scene, supporting our economic relationship as a long-standing member and former chair of the British Business Group in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, as a driving force behind The British University in Dubai (BUID), and as the Embassy’s Honorary Legal Adviser. Jennifer is a dedicated member of our community in Dubai and I congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition."

Jennifer added: “This is an extraordinary honour and something I never thought would come my way. I have made Dubai my home for the last 21 years and have always felt that it's not about just doing my job – it’s about doing more than that and about contributing beyond the norm. I’m always willing to help if I know that I can make a valuable contribution, and to be recognised for that in this way is very humbling."

Trowers & Hamlins' Senior Partner Jennie Gubbins said: "On behalf of the firm, I want to congratulate Jennifer on this well-deserved honour. She has worked very hard over the years to develop strong business ties between the UK and UAE and to support the local community in Dubai. We are delighted for her."